Based in Northern Virginia, Lonnie Lazear is a multi-unit district manager with the Glory Days Grill restaurant group. As an award-winning leader in the restaurant industry, Lonnie Lazear demonstrates knowledge in a wide range of areas, from profit-and-loss management to wine pairing.
Individuals should feel free to order whatever meal and wine combination they desire while out to eat at a restaurant. That said, wine experts have developed a system for pairing certain wines and foods to bring out the best elements of each. Most restaurants can assist patrons in choosing the right wine, though it can be helpful for individuals to learn the basics of wine pairing.
For example, it is generally advised that the wine be sweeter and more acidic than the food. That said, the wine and meal should have comparable flavor intensity, meaning extremely flavorful dishes should be paired with vibrant wine, as opposed to a wine with a blander flavor profile.
Red wine is typically paired with red meat and other boldly flavored meats, while white wines go well with fish, chicken, and other lighter dishes. That said, sauce should be considered more than the meat itself when contemplating a pairing.
Of course, these are just some of the basic elements of wine pairing. Individuals interested in learning more can speak to a wine expert or knowledgeable restaurant professional.
Lonnie Lazear 